Handheld Massage Tool Beveled Edge Ergonomic Handle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing handheld massage and therapy tools are cumbersome, require multiple devices for different techniques, and put excessive strain on therapists, while lacking portability and ease of use for applying deep pressure.
Innovation Solution
A compact, multi-use handheld tool made from stainless steel or other materials, featuring a cubical design with beveled edges for scraping and a ergonomic handle for comfort, allowing application of varying pressures and techniques like IASTM, tempering, and pressure massage in a single device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If therapists use their hands to perform deep pressure treatments, then deep pressure can be applied, but therapist strain and discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a handheld tool as an intermediary device between the therapist and patient's body. The tool includes a handle portion and head portion that transfers and concentrates therapeutic force, allowing the therapist to apply deep pressure without direct hand contact with the treatment area, thereby reducing therapist strain while maintaining treatment effectiveness
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate tools are used for different techniques (IASTM, tempering, pressure), then comprehensive treatment capabilities are achieved, but device complexity and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a single handheld tool with multiple functional surfaces and configurations. The head portion features different surfaces (e.g., rounded, flat, beveled) that can be selectively applied for various techniques including IASTM scraping, tempering pressure, and deep tissue massage. This multi-functional design consolidates multiple separate tools into one versatile device, improving portability while maintaining comprehensive treatment capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The tool incorporates different surface qualities and geometries on various portions of the head to enable different treatment techniques. For example, one surface may have a rounded contour for deep pressure, while another surface has a flat or beveled edge for scraping motions. This local differentiation of surface properties allows a single tool to perform multiple specialized functions
3Force
If large tempering devices are used to provide heavy pressure, then deep pressure capability is achieved, but weight and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the therapeutic function into two components: the handheld tool provides the mechanical interface and force application mechanism, while the therapist's body weight and manual force provide the actual pressure. This segmentation allows the tool itself to remain lightweight and portable, while still capable of delivering deep pressure through proper technique and leverage. The tool acts as a force multiplier rather than a weight-dependent device
Data Source
AI summary
A physical therapy tool comprising a handle portion formed of four edges creating a generally rectangular shape such that a first and second edges are longer and a third and fourth edges are shorter than the first and second edges and wherein at least one of the third and fourth edges is beveled. A shaft portion having two distal ends, the first distal end coupled to the handle portion. A head portion, the head portion coupled to the second distal end of the shaft portion and circular in shape wherein the side of the head portion opposite the side coupled to the shaft portion is convex.